Frequently Asked Questions

Have a question not listed? Contact the help desk.

Who can access the the PCC wireless network?

Here are the individuals who can access to the wireless network:

Faculty and Staff:
All current college faculty and staff.
Current Students:
Students must be enrolled in the current term.
College Guests:
Once on campus, individuals may request a guest account by visiting a CRC, or Library. PCC employees may create guest accounts for visitors and guests by submitting a request on the guest privileges page.

How do I access the wireless network?

Wireless enabled devices should be able to receive a signal using an SSID of "PCC". Once connected, you will need to open a web browser and sign in. Current students and employees can sign in using their MyPCC user name and PCC ID number. After signing in, you will see a page that states: "Do not navigate away from this page". This page must remain open, or you will be forced to sign in again.

Further details about the sign in process are available once your device has connected to the network.

What software is required?

To access the PCC wireless network you need to have a compatible browser and the correct version of Java installed on your device. We have tested the system using the following software on a laptop. Other devices may work, but have not been tested.

Browsers

In Windows XP, Microsoft Internet Explorer 6 and Internet Explorer 7 both work with the wireless network. However, you will need to allow popups from pcc.edu and allow the system to install an Active-X control the first time you log in. The latest versions of Firefox, and the Mozilla suite also work, though you may get a security warning the first time you visit the page. You will also need to allow popups from pcc.edu

On MacOS X, the latest versions of Safari and Firefox have both been tested.

Java

Our wireless access interface requires that you have Java installed. We have tested the system with Java (JRE) versions 1.5 and 1.6. Other versions may work, but have not been tested.

Where is the wireless access available?

Wireless access is currently available in many of the common areas around each campus. Specific access locations maps are available from the main wireless page.

How secure is it?

Wireless access at PCC uses an open network that should be considered unsecured. It is possible for information to be "captured" by others, so it is important to exercise extra caution when entering personal information such as passwords, or credit card numbers. However, many websites that require this kind of personal information have their own security measures. If you are in doubt, wait until you have a wired connection before submitting any personal information over the internet.

Where do I report problems and get help?

If you are still having trouble, call the appropriate help desk listed below.

  • Students: Student Help Desk at 503-977-8200
  • Staff and Faculty: Staff Help Desk at 503-977-4400